Swedish Major General Lena Persson Herlitz Named NATO's Deputy Intelligence Chief

Swedish Major General Lena Persson Herlitz has been appointed as NATO's Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Intelligence, a prestigious role that underscores Sweden's increasing influence within the alliance. She is set to assume the position after the summer of 2026 at NATO's headquarters in Brussels.

This appointment is one of the highest military roles within NATO and reflects the alliance's recognition of Sweden's valuable contributions. Defence Minister Pål Jonsson noted the importance of having Swedish personnel in key NATO roles, highlighting the significance of Persson Herlitz's new duties.

Persson Herlitz brings extensive experience to the post, having served in the Swedish Armed Forces with missions in Afghanistan, Bosnia, and Kosovo. She led the Swedish intelligence cell in Kabul before her promotion to major general in 2020. In response to her appointment, she remarked, "It is a confirmation that we, as an ally, are doing good work within NATO and that our competence is in demand."

Her new role as deputy to NATO's intelligence chief will involve a critical part in the alliance's intelligence and security operations. The appointment symbolizes Sweden's growing prominence within NATO's military intelligence community and its commitment to collective security.